This mini school is part of the UBC Future Global Leaders on-campus program for high school students ages 15–18. It is offered by the UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries.
In this mini school, we work in teams to discover how experts use different strategies and tools to study marine ecosystems, observe marine life in their natural habitats, and report findings to shape important policies. We research how different tools like drones and data science platforms are used to tackle challenges such as understanding the deep sea, observing marine mammals, and promoting sustainable fishing practices. Along the way, you develop general skills in the world of marine research, problem-solving, and sharing your ideas effectively with others.
Why marine science? The ocean is full of life, mysteries and challenges, and is vital for humanity as it provides nutritious food, supports livelihood and connects closely to many cultures. However, the need to protect the ocean has never been greater. And that is the ultimate goal of marine science: to help protect the ocean.
To achieve this goal, marine science requires creative thinkers who can solve real-world problems and inspire others to care for our blue planet. There are many essential and exciting career opportunities in marine science. Jobs in the ocean economy cover a wide range of careers, like protecting marine life, managing ocean resources, creating new technologies, and developing policies to keep our oceans healthy.
If you’re passionate about science, sustainability, or making a difference, this mini school is your chance to dive into the world of marine science and start making waves!
Course format
This mini-school is held on the UBC Vancouver campus.
On the first Monday of the session, you attend Orientation Day from 9am–3pm, which helps you build friendships, connect with your learning community, feel comfortable on campus and prepare for university life.
Starting on the first Tuesday of the session, you attend your mini school classes from 9am–12pm and 1:30–3pm on weekdays.
On-campus student life activities are scheduled for all students from 3-5pm on weekdays.
Instructors
This mini-school is taught by instructors from the UBC Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries.
Residence and commuting options
Choose to live in a student residence on campus or commute daily to UBC Vancouver:
Commuter Option includes lunch in residence dining hall, Monday through Friday, and UBC Recreation Card.
Residence Option includes private room and full board, airport pick-up and drop-off, local medical insurance for all international students, weeknight and weekend social activities (e.g., trips to Grouse Mountain, English Bay and Robson Street), and UBC Recreation Card.
Who is eligible?
This course is for high school students ages 15-18 who have completed grade 10 or equivalent.
We also recommend students have:
- 78% average / 3.5 GPA / B average / IB 5 or higher
- IELTS of 6.0 / TOEFL 80 or higher (or equivalent) for students whose high school courses were taught in a language other than English.
Cost details
| Student type | Mini school fee* |
| Canadian and Permanent Resident | $2,175 CAD |
| International | $2,940 CAD |
Optional add-on
- Residence: $2,730 CAD
*All fees are subject to change.
To register
A Family Account in UBC’s Lifelong Learning registration system is required to register for UBC Future Global Leaders on-campus.
After you add the course to your cart and go to check out, you’re asked to create a new Family Account or log in if you already have a Family Account.
A parent or guardian needs to set up the Family Account with their primary email address. After the account is created, the parent/guardian adds the student as a family member to their Family Account using the student’s primary email address (the student’s email address cannot be the same as the parent/guardian email address).
Add the student to the course session in your cart and complete the checkout process.
After completing the checkout process, and while logged into your Family Account, select New Application to access the FGL information package. Your registration is not final until the information package has been completed and submitted. You may partially complete the information package and return to it at any time within your Family Account.